FOCUS: ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY NEWS | YORBA LINDA

Plan for 2,100 Homes Draws Residents' Protests

Dozens of residents told the Planning Commission this week that they oppose plans by Shell Oil Co. to build 2,100 homes next to Carbon Canyon Park.

The residents said they are concerned the development would bring excess noise and too many cars through the quiet neighborhoods at the foot of the Chino Hills, just below the proposed development.

Tom Martin, a member of a citizens group called OUCH!, characterized the planning meeting Tuesday as "frustrating."

"It was more like a presentation than a public meeting. It was like, 'Look at this. This is what we are going to do,' " he said. "I don't know to what degree they are incorporating our concerns on the plan."

James Pickel, who chairs the Planning Commission, said the meeting was "extremely productive" because the developer heard concerns from residents.

A second hearing, on April 29, will give planning commissioners more time to review the guidelines of the plan.